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DAY SIX Wednesday 11/05/2011

When we woke up we were offered a lift to the train station. Absolute luxury! We caught one in- they are very cute, two levelled and slightly old- and I loved the city straight away. I now have a new understanding of Sam too.

Chicago city is beautiful, everything I admire in a city. The architecture captures a time I dream I could've experienced- the music, the people and the culture, intelligent, creative and hopeful- full of potential for the future. The pastel colouring of the buildings seem like a well thought out feature. It gives the the city as a whole this incredible blend of gentle colour, a palette similar to that of Edward Hoppers'. But like his paintings, the city is bold, straight forward and sharp. A curious juxtaposition. Soft in colour and depth but shape and direct in its' stance.

After the Chicago Fire where the whole city burnt down and everything had to be rebuilt. The buildings are very 1920s and are gorgeous.

There is an emerald river running through the centre of the city. It's such a pretty contrast and balance of nature and urbanised living.

We walked through a perfectly manicured park filled with people relaxing, reading and enjoying the heat and sun. Sam explained that the Symphony rehearses in this park and the music echoes through the city.

Walking to the station my fellow commuters played a familiar game. They were more advanced, accelerated in their pace. All way too wary of themselves. Scoping out empty spaces, rushing bodies shifted, moving in step with the rhythm of the urban machine.

'Human tetris'.

Chicago is a prettier, cheaper version of Sydney.